Real Money Pai Gow Casinos Ranked and Rated 2025

Pai Gow is a popular online casino game that has gained immense popularity among South African players. Originating from China, this game combines elements of both poker and dominoes to create an exciting and unique gambling experience. The name "Pai Gow" translates to "make nine," which reflects the objective of the game - to create two hands that add up to a total value higher than those of the dealer.

In Pai Gow, a standard deck of 52 cards is used, along with one joker. The joker can be used as an ace or as a wild card to complete a straight or flush. The game begins with each player receiving seven cards, which they must divide into two separate hands: a five-card hand (also known as the high hand) and a two-card hand (the low hand). Your goal is to arrange your cards in such a way that both hands are stronger than those of the dealer.

Playing Pai Gow may seem intimidating at first, but once you understand the rules, it becomes an enjoyable and strategic game. To start playing, you need to place your bet on the table within the designated betting area. Once all bets have been placed, you will receive seven cards face down.

The next step involves dividing your seven cards into two separate hands: one five-card hand and one two-card hand. The five-card hand should always have higher value than the two-card hand. After arranging your cards accordingly, compare them with those of the dealer's respective hands.

To win in Pai Gow, both your high and low hands must beat those of the dealer's corresponding hands. If only one of your hands wins while the other loses against the dealer's respective hands, it results in what is called a push or tie – neither winning nor losing any money.

Winning at Pai Gow requires a combination of strategy, skill, and luck. One key tip is to carefully analyze your cards and consider the best possible ways to divide them into two hands. Remember that your five-card hand should always have a higher value than your two-card hand.

Another important aspect of winning at Pai Gow is understanding the ranking system for different hands. For instance, a royal flush is the highest-ranking hand in poker and will guarantee you a win if it beats the dealer's corresponding hand. Similarly, four-of-a-kind or full house are strong hands that can increase your chances of winning.

It's worth noting that Pai Gow also offers players an opportunity to play as the banker. By assuming this role, you can take advantage of certain advantages such as being able to push when both your high and low hands tie with those of other players.

Did you know that Pai Gow is believed to have originated during the Song Dynasty in China? The game was initially played using tiles instead of cards but eventually evolved into its current form with playing cards during the 19th century.

In South Africa, where gambling has become increasingly popular over time, many online casinos offer variations of Pai Gow tailored specifically for local players. This allows South African gamblers to enjoy this exciting game from the comfort of their own homes while still experiencing all the thrills and challenges it offers.

So why not give Pai Gow a try? With its unique blend of poker and dominoes elements, this game promises hours of entertainment while giving you an opportunity to test your skills against both fellow players and dealers alike. Good luck!